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Jerusalem – Israel has issued a statement expressing profound regret over a strike that tragically impacted Gaza’s sole Catholic church, resulting in the loss of three lives. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, has drawn international condemnation and raised serious questions about the conduct of military operations in densely populated areas.

According to a statement released by the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel “deeply regrets” the incident, attributing the damage to “stray ammunition” impacting the church compound. The statement emphasized Israel's commitment to avoiding civilian casualties and expressed condolences to the families of those who perished.

The church, located in Gaza City, serves as a vital spiritual and community hub for the small Catholic population in the region. Reports indicate that the strike caused significant damage to the building, disrupting religious services and displacing worshippers. The three fatalities were confirmed by local authorities, further compounding the tragedy.

International Reaction and Calls for Accountability

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from international bodies and human rights organizations. Many have called for a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the strike, demanding accountability for any potential violations of international humanitarian law. The Vatican has also expressed its deep concern, urging restraint and protection of civilian populations in the ongoing conflict.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the damage to this sacred place of worship,” said a spokesperson for the Vatican. “We implore all parties to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians and to respect the sanctity of religious sites.”

Israel's Response and Investigation Promise

In response to the international outcry, Israel has pledged to launch an investigation into the incident. The Prime Minister’s office stated that the investigation will aim to determine the precise sequence of events leading to the strike and to assess whether all necessary precautions were taken to avoid civilian casualties. The findings of the investigation are expected to be made public in due course.

However, critics have questioned the credibility of an internal investigation, suggesting that an independent international inquiry would be more likely to uncover the truth and ensure accountability. The incident underscores the challenges of conducting military operations in densely populated urban environments and the importance of adhering to international law and the principles of proportionality and distinction.

The Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Concerns

The strike on the Catholic church occurs amidst an ongoing period of heightened tensions and conflict between Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with limited access to essential services and a growing number of displaced persons. International aid organizations are struggling to provide assistance to those in need, and the risk of further civilian casualties remains high.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the long-standing dispute. The investigation into the church strike will be closely watched by the international community as a test of Israel’s commitment to accountability and respect for human rights.